Northern Foreshores Copeton Dam – Inverell Lakeside Camping

For freshwater anglers, the Northern Foreshores of Copeton Dam is a legendary, almost mythical destination. Widely regarded as one of Australia’s premier Murray cod fisheries, this massive holiday park is a mecca for those seeking to land the fish of a lifetime. But the appeal of this spectacular location extends far beyond just fishing. Set on the rugged, beautiful northern shores of the massive Copeton Dam, this spacious park offers a fantastic and comfortable camping experience for everyone, from serious anglers to families on holiday. The park is huge, providing an almost endless choice of powered and unpowered sites, from prime waterfront positions to sheltered spots amongst the trees, all suitable for every kind of setup.

Life here revolves around the water. The park features multiple boat ramps providing easy access to the dam’s vast expanse, which is a playground for water skiers and kayakers as well as boat-based fishos. The facilities are exceptional, boasting modern amenity blocks with hot showers and flush toilets, a camp kitchen, and even a kiosk for basic supplies. The campground is extremely pet-friendly, making it a perfect choice for those who travel with their entire family. Evenings are a special time, with campers gathering around fire pits (when permitted) to share stories of the day’s catches under a brilliant, star-filled country sky. While it feels wonderfully remote, the park is just a scenic drive from the service town of Inverell. For an action-packed, comfortable, and pet-friendly lakeside holiday in a world-class fishing location, the Northern Foreshores of Copeton Dam is an unmissable experience.

• Website: Northern Foreshores Copeton Dam
• GPS Coordinates: -29.89382, 150.99845

Site Information

• Location: On the northern shore of Copeton Dam, east of Inverell.
• Site suitable for: Tents, camper trailers, caravans, motorhomes, big rigs.
• Road access: Sealed road. Easy 2WD access.
• Site surface: Large grassy and dirt areas.
• Camping permitted: Yes, fees apply. Bookings are essential.
• Maximum overnight stays: Check with park management.
• Number of powered sites: Numerous powered sites are available.
• Number of un-powered sites: Hundreds of unpowered sites are available.
• Facilities: Hot showers, flush toilets, camp kitchen, laundry, barbecues, multiple boat ramps, fish cleaning tables, kiosk.
• Picnic tables: Yes.
• Potable water: Yes.
• Mobile phone coverage: Good for Telstra, patchy for others. A public phone is available.
• TV reception: Good.
• Onsite public toilets: Yes.
• Ullage: Yes, a dump point is available.
• Drive through: Yes, some sites are available.
• Rubbish bins: Yes.
• Open fires: Permitted in your own fire pit, subject to local fire bans.
• Generator use: Permitted in unpowered areas, with consideration for others.
• Number of sites available: Very large park with hundreds of sites.

Essentials to Bring

• Boat, kayak, or canoe.
• Fishing gear and a NSW Recreational Fishing Licence.
• Your own fire pit and firewood (check availability of firewood for purchase).

Activities

• Pet friendly: Yes, very pet friendly.
• Fishing: World-class fishing for Murray cod, golden perch, and other species.
• Short walks: Explore the extensive foreshore and surrounding bushland.

Local Amenities (in Inverell)

• Local Pubs:
  • The Royal Hotel, Inverell (~55 km)
  • The Australian Hotel, Inverell (~55 km)
  • The Oxford Hotel, Inverell (~55 km)
• Places to Eat:
  • An extensive range of pubs, clubs, cafes, and restaurants in Inverell (~55 km)
• Local Attractions:
  • Copeton Dam Wall
  • Inverell Pioneer Village (~55 km)
  • Goonoowigall Sound Chapel (~58 km)
  • Sapphire fossicking areas around Inverell.
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Inverell Caravan Park (~55 km)
• Next Free Camps:
  • Pindari Dam Camping Ground (~60 km)
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Onsite at the campground.
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Multiple service stations in Inverell (~55 km). Arrive with plenty of fuel.
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Available onsite.
• Public Toilets:
  • Onsite at the campground.

Seasonal Weather Forecast: New England / North West Slopes

• Summer (December – February): Hot to very hot and often dry. Perfect for water sports. Average temperatures from 19°C to 33°C.
• Autumn (March – May): Warm, sunny days and cool nights. Ideal for fishing and camping. Temperatures range from 10°C to 27°C.
• Winter (June – August): Cold, with heavy frosts common. Days are typically cool but clear and sunny. Temperatures range from 2°C to 17°C.
• Spring (September – November): Mild to warm days with cool nights. The landscape is green and vibrant. Temperatures range from 10°C to 26°C.